Alek Manoah In Danger Of Losing Rotation Spot

"Neither has made a great first impression. Rodriguez has allowed seven runs with a 7:6 strikeout-to-walk ratio through eight innings. He has at least had encouraging velocity, averaging 95 mph on his fastball. He's a wild card after missing the past season and a half to shoulder issues."

"Manoah has had an even tougher time, giving up five runs with eight walks and only four strikeouts through 7 1/3 frames. The former Cy Young finalist, who also hasn't made an MLB appearance since 2024, has been in the 91-92 mph range with his fastball. His velocity was in a similar spot last season in the minor leagues."

"The sinkerballer has put a stronger foot forward in camp. Kochanowicz has only allowed two runs in 8 2/3 innings spanning three appearances. He has recorded five strikeouts with one walk while keeping the ball on the ground at a 60% clip. That shouldn't outweigh last year's struggles, but it could be enough to jump the struggling Manoah on the depth chart."

The Angels entered spring training with three established rotation members locked in: Yusei Kikuchi, José Soriano, and Reid Detmers. Offseason acquisitions Grayson Rodriguez and Alek Manoah were initially favored for the final two rotation spots. However, both have underperformed significantly. Rodriguez has allowed seven runs with control issues through eight innings, while Manoah has struggled more severely with five runs, eight walks, and only four strikeouts in limited innings. Both pitchers are returning from extended injuries and showing reduced velocity compared to their career norms. Their poor performances have opened opportunities for minor league alternatives, particularly Jack Kochanowicz and Sam Aldegheri, who represent the top challengers for rotation spots.

Read at MLB Trade Rumors